June 13-18, LAF Air Defence Battalion's troops took part in Stinger missile short-range air defence system firing at air-born exercise in Denmark, Gniben Military Area.
Lithuanian troops take part in such firing exercise organised in Denmark under cooperation program between Lithuanian Armed Forces and Danish Armed Forces for a third time. This year unmanned aircrafts served as targets as it was during the first exercise, last year servicemen aimed at surface-to-air missiles.
Troops of Air Defence Battalion trained before the field exercise with Stinger launching systems in Lithuania's possession, later in Denmark - with joint terminal attack control virtual trainer „Dome". The trainer is installed in a dome-shaped quarters and "covered" with a screen to simulate airspace, aircrafts, and course of battle. Commanders of units and operators of launching systems use the trainer to enhance skills of aiming at a range of aircraft types.
Lithuanian representatives underwent the exercise successfully: operator of launching system Sgt V. Vaitiekūnas and operator SSgt L. Masiokas destroyed targets at the second and first shot, direct hit, respectively. Excellent weather, sunny and clear day without any wind provided great condition to detect targets early and destroy them in a maximum distance. Accuracy of Lithuanian troops was recognised by representatives of the Danish Armed Forces.
After the exercise Danish troops invited Lithuanians to tour Copenhagen, capital of Denmark.
It was the last time Denmark hosted Stinger missile short-range air defence system exercise.
Air Defence Battalion, 3rd Air Defence Battery Deputy Commander 1st Lt Ignas Vėžys.
Air Defence Battalion:
Pictures: Shot from a man-portable air defence missile Stinger.
Launch of UAV.
Aiming.
UAV is down.
Target is hit.
